Winter Vacation Scheme 2017 Review

Brilliant fortnight - everybody in the firm was so welcoming and friendly during the scheme. We got to speak to people from all levels of the organisation and carry out work which was of actual use to people (i.e. whilst assessed, they weren't made up tasks).

People went out of their way to explain things, include me in things (e.g. Xmas lunches) and gave me work whilst ensuring I was comfortable in what I was being asked to do. Everybody in the department was more than happy to chat about their time at the firm.

Lots - the graduate recruitment team kept in regular contact and gave updates throughout the week. Both of my supervisors in their respective departments explained the work I was given, and introduced me to other people who also gave me work to do. If I was unsure of anything/needed clarification, I always felt able to ask.

Brilliant way to determine if a career in corporate law was for me. Sitting in the office and being in a real environment was great as you picked up on nuances - observing how your supervisor dealt with clients on the phone, interacted with colleagues etc. was useful. Coffee chats I arranged with trainees/associates from various departments were a useful way to gain information in an informal setting whilst more formal presentations from each department allowed you to gain a better overview of each practice area. We also got seminars on key skills such as networking to ensure we made the most of our time here.

Really well structured and communicated with a packed programme of events - social, networking and more formal situations. Everything ran smoothly and it was easy to know what was planned for each day.

Brilliant. As there is an established system of having vac. scheme students in the firm, people knew how to help you/answer any queries. You always felt like you were part of the firm. The social events were good fun too and I got on really well with everybody else on the scheme, which says something about the selection process I think.

Provided sessions on skills useful for a career in the law, ensured that feedback was given by your supervisors at the end of each week, from your interview day for the scheme and your overall performance on the scheme. This was given prior to the training contract interview at the end of the scheme.

Really useful - especially from discussions with trainees.

Great to be involved/see the firm on a day to day basis rather than them selling it on an open day.

Really useful - I'd like to work here in the future.

Paid well for the work I did on the scheme. I spent most of it on accommodation as I do not live in London, however the amount given was generous I thought.

Yes - partner drinks, trainee events and general meetings allowed me to chat to a variety of people.

Really useful and well structured; everybody present at the events was chatty and open to asking questions. I liked that they were keen to know you as a person/felt like they were genuinely interested in what you had to say.

Yes - pro bono initiatives were well discussed, as were social and sports clubs. This was mentioned at presentation events however I also gained information by asking the people I met.

Yes - it has been a brilliant experience and I have enjoyed every minute. A great way to see what it is like to work at the firm and gain information about life as a solicitor. Well structured and a great culture/place to work.